Akshay Kumar remembers late Chuck Norris
Bollywood star Akshay Kumar paid tribute to late American martial artist and actor Chuck Norris, who passed away Thursday at 86. Known for his role as Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger, Norris inspired Kumar during his early martial arts training. Sharing a note on X, Kumar said watching Norris in films like Way of the Dragon and Missing in Action was “not just entertainment… it was education,” praising his discipline, strength, and on-screen command. Norris began his career with an uncredited role in The Wrecking Crew (1968) and appeared in over 20 films, including Missing in Action, The Delta Force, and Sidekicks. His iconic role in Walker, Texas Ranger ran for nine seasons. He was later named an honorary Texas Ranger and recognized as an honorary Texan by the Texas Senate. Kumar expressed gratitude for the inspiration Norris provided, shaping part of his life and career. (PTI)
The Great Shamsuddin Family to close 24th IFFLA
Family comedy-drama The Great Shamsuddin Family, directed by Anusha Rizvi and presented by the makers of Peepli Live, has been selected as the closing film for the 24th Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA). The festival runs from April 23, with the closing screening on April 26. Released on JioHotstar in December, the film follows Bani Ahmed, played by Kritika Kamra, who juggles a 12-hour writing deadline amid family chaos. Featuring an ensemble cast including Purab Kohli, Farida Jalal, Shreya Dhanwanthary, Juhi Babbar, Sheeba Chaddha, and Dolly Ahluwalia, the story explores relatable themes of love, family, and responsibilities. Rizvi called the film “deeply personal,” celebrating everyday family life, while Kamra said it was an emotional experience. IFFLA highlights South Asian cinema globally through features, shorts, discussions, and masterclasses. (PTI)
Ila Arun: Theatre offers job opportunities for youth
Actor-singer Ila Arun, a jury member at the 21st Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META), welcomed youth participation in theatre, noting it’s a positive sign even if driven by career opportunities. Speaking to PTI, she said more young people from villages and smaller cities are joining theatre, helping preserve it as a medium of live performance. Arun observed that theatre is now seen as a potential career path, leading to work in OTT, films, or other platforms. META, opening March 19 at Kamani Auditorium, features 10 productions across 13 categories, exploring themes like mythology, identity, politics, and social change in multiple languages. The festival concludes with the awards night on March 25. (PTI)
